you can do it! don't let all the negativity dissuade you! i'm always surprised how many of the guys hate their jobs or the industry but still continue to do it! i just spent four years flying around the U.S. getting all my ratings, spending that same $100K you are talking about. I did it slow and chased the cheap, I got a job in Alaska straight out of the gate, flew there the last three years, got an ATP, and now am looking to get on with a Regional. Point is, I probably will fly for them for about a year and then hang it up, because I also think this industry is ridiculous, and don't want to be part of it (but I have to check the box first, came this far.)

I agree with the last post, if money is no issue, go to ATP and you will be on your way in less than a year, assuming you are dedicated and willing to be consumed by flying. A friend of mine went 0-Commercial in 8 months, came to Alaska and was making money, flying 100 hours a month, immediately following school (never was a CFI).

It is about the journey, enjoy the ride. You can't know about something until you do it. You can't learn everything off of airlinepilotforums and the internet, you have to do it. Then when you get to the regionals in a few years, if you decide you don't like it, move on to the next career. Life is about experiences, you'll never know if you don't go. GOOD LUCK, this will be an amazing adventure!!